President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has said the government is committed to protecting press freedom in the Maldives, while making clear that defamation and slander undermining an individual’s dignity will not be tolerated.
The President made the remarks during a community consultation with residents of Malé’s Maafannu district at Thaajudheen School on Thursday evening, responding to a question from a journalist.
He said the purpose of such meetings is to give the public a direct platform to raise concerns and share views with the administration. President Muizzu added that he welcomes public opinion, constructive criticism, and differing perspectives, and assured that every citizen is equal in the eyes of the government.
Speaking about the media, the President noted that journalism carries significant responsibility and stressed the need for impartial reporting. He said that when a media outlet openly declares its editorial line as anti-government, its coverage becomes politically biased, contradicting journalistic ethics.
The President said the government will not restrict press freedom or free expression when practiced within recognized journalistic standards that align with Islamic principles and the Constitution. However, he emphasized that these freedoms do not include defamation or attacks on personal dignity.
Reaffirming that the right to dignity is a fundamental principle, President Muizzu said his administration will not allow violations of this right, while continuing to support the media’s role in reporting truthfully and without political bias.
The President made the remarks during a community consultation with residents of Malé’s Maafannu district at Thaajudheen School on Thursday evening, responding to a question from a journalist.
He said the purpose of such meetings is to give the public a direct platform to raise concerns and share views with the administration. President Muizzu added that he welcomes public opinion, constructive criticism, and differing perspectives, and assured that every citizen is equal in the eyes of the government.
Speaking about the media, the President noted that journalism carries significant responsibility and stressed the need for impartial reporting. He said that when a media outlet openly declares its editorial line as anti-government, its coverage becomes politically biased, contradicting journalistic ethics.
The President said the government will not restrict press freedom or free expression when practiced within recognized journalistic standards that align with Islamic principles and the Constitution. However, he emphasized that these freedoms do not include defamation or attacks on personal dignity.
Reaffirming that the right to dignity is a fundamental principle, President Muizzu said his administration will not allow violations of this right, while continuing to support the media’s role in reporting truthfully and without political bias.
